Larry Vaughn Spendlove

Larry Vaughn Spendlove, age 84, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family, on the morning of March 9, 2026, in Salt Lake City, Utah, following complications from ALS. He was diagnosed less than a year ago, and because of his age the disease progressed quickly. Thankfully, Larry maintained his speech, mobility, and memory almost until the very end. After a brief bout with pneumonia, his body became weak and he passed within a few weeks. His family is grateful that he did not experience prolonged suffering and remained lucid through most of his illness.

Larry was born on November 18, 1941, in Provo, Utah, to Vaughn Denzel and Marjorie Mower Spendlove.

He graduated from West High School in Salt Lake City in June 1960. He later attended Brigham Young University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in English Literature in August 1965 and a Master of Arts in English Literature in 1967. He went on to earn his Juris Doctor from George Washington University in Washington, D.C., in 1971.

From September 1961 - 1963, he served a two year mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Western States Mission serving mostly in Colorado and western Texas.

On February 23, 1967, Larry married Venise Sandra Robison in the Salt Lake Temple. Together they built a loving home and family centered on faith, service, and education.

Larry served as an Assistant City Attorney for Salt Lake City for more than 30 years. Throughout his career he earned the respect of colleagues, city leaders, and community members for his integrity, fairness, and thoughtful approach to public service. Though small in stature at 5’4”, he was widely known as a giant in character—someone who quietly stood up for others and sought A to do what was right.

Larry was a devoted member of the Church and lived his faith through a lifetime of service. He served in many callings throughout his life, but one of his most meaningful roles was serving as bishop of a central-city congregation in Salt Lake City. There he worked closely with many who were struggling or underserved. Larry believed deeply in both compassion and dignity. He helped build a sustainable model of assistance that provided financial and emotional support while encouraging those who were able to volunteer in church-operated soap and canning facilities. His goal was always to lift people up while helping them regain independence and purpose.

He also had a deep love for temple service and faithfully attended the temple weekly, serving in various roles over the years. His faith and devotion to the gospel were guiding principles throughout his life.

Larry loved his family deeply and cherished time spent together. He looked forward to regular monthly gatherings with his siblings and with his children and their families. He especially enjoyed traveling with his extended family and planned many memorable vacations over the years to places such as Southern California, Mexico, Jackson Hole, Southern Utah, the Pacific Northwest, and numerous camping trips closer to home. He also believed strongly in opening his home to others, and many holidays included guests who might otherwise have been alone.

Larry is survived by his loving wife, Venise Spendlove; his children Vaughn Spendlove, deceased (Holly), William Spendlove (Steve Wilson), Robert Spendlove (Kristen), and Debbie Pitt (James); and numerous grandchildren; Ashley, Cami (Matt), Joshua (Breanna), Noelle (Chandler), Rachel (Brandon), Rebekah, Enoch, Faith, Lauren (Trent), Cameron (YiQiao), Derek, Emily, Preston, Katerina, and William.

He is also survived by his siblings Joseph (Eileen Gwynn), Annette (Michael Longman, deceased), and Eileen (Rick, deceased).

Larry was preceded in death by his son Vaughn Spendlove; his parents Vaughn Denzel Spendlove and Marjorie Mower Spendlove; his sister Corilee Southern; and his brother Steven Spendlove.

A viewing will be held on Friday, March 13, from 6:00–8:00 PM, with an additional viewing on Saturday, March 14, at 10:00 AM prior to the funeral service at 11:30 AM. Both viewings and the funeral service will be held at the Monument Park Chapel, 1005 S 2000 E, Salt Lake City, Utah 84108. Interment will follow at Larkin Sunset Lawn, 2350 E 1300 S, Salt Lake City, Utah 84108.

For those unable to attend the service in person, the family invites you to join via Zoom. Please click on the Watch Services button above.

Larry will be remembered for his kindness, quiet strength, devotion to faith, and deep love for his family. His life was defined by service to others and a steadfast commitment to the principles he believed in.